Juventus vs Sassuolo: Match Preview

Juventus face Sassuolo in a Serie A clash that could define their push for the top four. They're sitting fifth with 53 points, just one behind Como, and a win here would ease the pressure. Sassuolo, comfortably in tenth on 38 points, don't have much to play for beyond pride.

And it's Juventus who enter this one as clear favorites. Their recent form shows a mixed bag: a disappointing 0-2 loss to Udinese, but wins over Galatasaray and Pisa, plus a draw with Roma. That's enough to keep them in the hunt. Sassuolo, on the other hand, have been on a roll with three straight wins before slipping up against Lazio and Bologna. But let's not kid ourselves—Juventus have dominated this fixture, thrashing Sassuolo 3-0 back in January.

At home, Juventus are a force, especially against teams like Sassuolo. They'll line up in a 3-4-2-1 with Perin in goal and Yildiz leading the attack. He's been their star, bagging nine goals and six assists in 28 games. McKennie and David add some bite too. Sassuolo might opt for a 4-3-3, relying on Pinamonti or Berardi up front; they've chipped in with six or seven goals each. But injuries could derail their plans—players like Fadera and Boloca are out, which might leave gaps.

Juventus aren't without issues themselves. Holm's back just in time, but Thuram-Ulien remains sidelined with ankle problems. Still, I reckon that'll push the likes of Locatelli to step up. Expect Yildiz to be the difference; he's created more big chances than anyone else in Serie A bar one.

But Sassuolo won't roll over. They've shown they can grind out results, and players like Laurienté could cause problems on the counter. This match should be Juventus's to lose, given their head-to-head edge and home advantage. I'm betting on them to control the game and find the net.

Sassuolo's defense has looked shaky lately, conceding in their last two. Juventus, though, have been clinical at times. We might see a few goals fly in.